Which statement below is true about oceanic crust in comparison to continental crust?
A) Oceanic crust is thinner and heavier (higher specific gravity).
B) Oceanic crust is thicker and heavier (higher specific gravity).
C) Oceanic crust is thinner and lighter (lower specific gravity).
D) Oceanic crust is thicker and lighter (lower specific gravity).
E) Oceanic crust is heavier and has about the same thickness.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Oceanic crust is indeed thinner and denser (or heavier) than continental crust, primarily because it is composed of basaltic rocks, which are denser than the granitic rocks that make up continental crust. This difference in composition and density is a fundamental aspect of plate tectonics and the behavior of Earth's crust.

Which Statement Below Is True About Oceanic Crust in Comparison